Newly renovated Whataburger opens with ribbon cutting ceremony

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at 10 a.m. today for the newly renovated Whataburger.

The San Marcos location was selected to undergo major transformations and become a new prototype for future locations. It features an updated design, two drive-thru lanes and a more modern dining room that includes photos showcasing Whataburger’s history and new LED lighting.

The ceremony was held at the intersection of I-35 and Highway 123 and began with an invocation from Pastor Jenna Heart of First United Methodist Church. After the invocation, the Gary Jobs Corps color guard performed a flag raising ceremony. The national anthem was performed by Mary Gutierrez and Carla Sisk, members of the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce Ambassador group.

Lexi Gonzales, the director of Field Marketing for Whataburger, gave a brief history of Whataburger and its founder, Harmon Dobson. Dobson’s daughter, Lynn Dobson, was in attendance at the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony.

“I don’t know many people that have parties when they open stores, but we certainly do,” Dobson said. “My brother Hugh and I have been going to store openings for about 14 years now.”

Dobson said Whataburger’s new campaign is “pride, care and love.”

“We mean it, we live it and we love it—we consider everyone family,” Dobson said.

Lindsey Watson, director of Bobcat Build, and assistant director Ashley Pritchard were presented with a donation of $500 from Whataburger.

“Bobcat Build is the second largest student run community service event in the state of Texas,” Watson said. “This donation helps our organization tremendously.”

Pam Graves, chair of the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors, closed the ceremony by recognizing city officials Wayne Becak, deputy mayor pro tempore, Councilman John Thomaides, Place 3, and City Manager Jared Miller.

Members of all organizations present participated in the ribbon cutting, which was followed by complimentary breakfast and refreshments.